Rebuttal to argument for Measure N

The proponents of this new tax rely on manipulative, emotional arguments that lack substantive supporting data.

FACT:    An “extended” tax is a NEW TAX.

FACT:   State funding is supposed to be limited for our district!  The proponents neglect to mention that Loma Prieta Joint Union School District is one of only 10% of California schools known as “Excess Tax Districts,” meaning our local revenues exceed state funding limits.  Why?  Because your property taxes are already through the roof!  Our “Excess Tax District” brings in much more per pupil than other districts that rely on state funding.  And according to the district’s own data, our limited state revenue has actually been increasing!  Don’t be deceived by this misleading argument.

FACT:   The COVID impact on revenue is negligible.  The proponents claim the district is facing “tens of thousands of dollars” in lost revenue due to COVID.  If we generously call it $100k, this represents just 1.3% of total revenue.  The COVID recession has impacted all of us -- not just the recipients of tax dollars, but more so the people who pay taxes.  Why is an unprecedented economic crisis the right time for a new tax on our community?

FACT:    Responsible fiscal management makes good schools better and protects property values.  Demand fiscal accountability!

Don’t be fooled by manipulative arguments.  Our kids, teachers, and community deserve responsible leadership and management of our public dollars.

Mountain community matters – say no to destructive out of control taxes.

Join educators, parents, and residents in voting NO on N.

https://www.lpta95033.org/

Stephen F. Smith
Longtime Mountain Resident/Property Owner

C. Wayne Crabbs
Longtime Mountain resident

Mark A. Zammit
Longtime Mountain resident

Gary W. Whitney
40+ year resident

Deborah Whitney
30+ years resident